Telecommunications

With renowned expertise in the procurement of telecommunications projects Sharpe Pritchard is regularly approached for advice from central and local government bodies, emergency services authorities and private telecoms companies. We have a thorough knowledge of this sector with regards to regulation, commercial matters and transactions.

We have worked with many clients on high-profile projects having an expert understanding in network infrastructure and strong working knowledge of existing and new technology. This includes expertly negotiating and drafting complex telecommunications contracts with our in-depth knowledge in telecommunications regulatory law both in the UK and the EU. Our instructions often require us to advise on the state aid implications of telecommunications projects, to ensure that projects do not constitute unlawful state aid.

Our expertise also runs to advising and acting in matters of appeals under the Communications Act, injunctions and judicial review. In addition, we are well versed in the property and planning issues which arise on telecommunications matters. We regularly advise on the statutory rights of communications providers to access land in third party ownership for the installation and maintenance of apparatus, in particular their rights and powers pursuant to the Telecommunications Act 1984, Communications Act 2003 and the Electronic Communications Code.

Recent work

Ministry of Justice, Future IT Sourcing (FITS) Programme – advising on the procurement of Video, Voice and Integration and WAN LAN contracts

A number of county councils – advising on the procurement of superfast broadband network solutions using the BDUK framework

Westminster City Council - advising upon the procurement of a Metro Wireless network, procured as a concession contract. The contracting model which we created for this matter has since been successfully adopted by a large number of other local authorities, many of whom we have also advised.

What others say

Gareth Oldale

“Gareth has been one of the main drivers in delivering the project, not just from providing legal advice but encompassing the many varied and complex issues and understanding the bigger picture. Gareth's attitude has always been positive with the ‘can do approach’ - I know Gareth has worked many late and long hours to achieve the deadlines imposed and has never blanched at the prospect of unexpected workloads. Above all though, we have appreciated Gareth's calm manner and sense of humour throughout the time he has been on the project. Personally, and I know I speak for others, Gareth has been a pleasure to work with.”

“I would have hoped to have the opportunity to visit in person and say thanks for your immense contribution to a successful procurement. The doom goblins were adamant that we would stumble and fall, and with your invaluable assistance we proved them wrong. It has been an unmitigated pleasure to work with you.”

“I have to say without (Gareth’s) personal efforts we would not have been in a position to sign off this vitally important piece of work. I have been a manager for many years with the Council and I can honestly say he is one of the best advisors I have worked with. In addition to being extremely competent and professional, he is well very liked and respected by the team, senior manager and also our new suppliers.”